Keyboard installation-missing functions

Question

I replaced the keyboard on my Ispiron B120 due to a broken shift key. I used a Dell new replacement, was very careful with the connection and did not experience any problems. When I powered up, I found that my Space, Enter, Backslash, and Backspace keys weren't working. I  re-installed my old keyboard and now found the same keys not working. This sounds like a bad contact on the keyboard connector but I have very carefully removed and re-installed the ribbon plug, cleaned connections and examined both plug and jack with a magnifier. Everything looks OK but the above keys will not function on either keyboard. The ribbon plugs from both keyboards fit nicely in place, with the side tabs where they should be, before the cover is snapped down. I have called up the on-screen keyboard from Windows Accessories and every works on this one. I would very much appreciate suggestions.

DELL-Amogh G · Accepted Answer

Hi gb38,

You may try using an external keyboard. Although it seems the issue is with the keyboard connecter on the motherboard and you may need to replace the motherboard.

If you are comfortable in replacing the motherboard and you are residing in the US, you may contact dell spares to check for the price. Please refer to the link: http://dell.to/11GOIPD. For Owner’s Manual, please refer to the link: http://bit.ly/1bfeFfl.

You may contact Dell Out of Warranty Repairs (OWR) department in US by referring to the link: http://dell.to/15Ru1qU.

Hope this helps. Please feel free to reply for any further assistance.

gb38 · Answer

Hi Amogh,

Thanks for the advice. I will check pricing on a motherboard. I am comfortable doing most PC repairs, but I would like to see a motherboard replacement procedure before attempting it on a laptop if there is one available somewhere.

Thanks again.

Gene (gb38)

DELL-Amogh G · Answer

Hi Gene, To see how to remove the motherboard, you may refer to the Youtube video from the link below: http://dell.to/13pnIoQ. Hope this helps. Please feel free to reply for any further assistance.

gb38 · Answer

Hi Amogh, Great video. If I'm real lucky, I might have a broken solder connection under the keyboard connector. Thanks very much. Gene

DELL-Amogh G · Answer

Hi Gene,

Thank you for the response. I am glad that you found the video useful. I hope you’ll be able to replace the motherboard and the system is working fine now.

Please feel free to reply for any questions. I will be glad to assist further.

gb38 · Answer

Hi Amogh,

After writing down the steps in the video, I disassembled the laptop down to the MB surface. Here I found that a pin on the rear of the KB connector had lifted from the board pad. My pencil tip was too large to return it directly, but I used a fine wire strand and a magnifier to bridge to a feed-through terminal on the same circuit. The keyboard works great now - all functions.

Two other issues came up after I powered up:

(1) On the All Programs list, several of my regular programs are amber shaded as if they were new programs. They function OK but I don't know how to eliminate the shading.

(2) Many internet sites that I previously had easy access to now show a security certificate problem - not up to date, etc. This includes the Dell Forum. I am able to get past them with repeated proceed commands or other selections, but this is cumbersome. I assume that there was something lost during the dis- assembly and must be restored but I don't know how to proceed.

Thanks very much for your help.

Gene

Robin3 · Answer

Check the Date / Time and location on your computer and ensure they are set correctly. This may help with the security certificates.

Locked Topics – Laptops General

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